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By JEFF HOUCK

jhouck@tampatrib.com

Published: February 8, 2009

"Oishinbo," by Tetsu Kariya and Akira Hanasaki (VIZ Media, $12.99)

This graphic novel drawn in the manga cartoon style is the story of a journalist assigned by his newspaper's top executives to create "The Ultimate Menu" to celebrate the publication's 100th anniversary. (Note to my editors: Pay attention here.) With the help of his co-worker, he begins an epic journey to find unique and tasty dishes for the ultimate bill of fare. "Oishinbo" (or "The Gourmet") debuted in Japan in 1983. The series of comics has sold 100 million copies. Rated "T" for teens, each volume features full-color instructions on how to prepare the unique dishes presented.

"The Cracker Kitchen," by Janis Owens (Simon & Schuster, $25)

Part anthropological study (the word "cracker" traces back to Shakespearean England), part homespun family tale, this book unfolds like a warm conversation over a Southern dinner table. Just thumbing through the recipes for such dishes as peas ambush, fried okra and smoked oysters will make you long for your simpler, flavorful Southern roots - even if you don't have any.

"Cooking & Screaming," By Adrienne Kane (Simon & Schuster, $24)

Two weeks before her college graduation, Adrienne Kane suffered a stroke that paralyzed the right side of her body. With her dreams of being a dancer and teacher dashed, the next few years were a blur of doctors, tests and rehabilitation. Then she turned to the kitchen for rejuvenation. Teaching herself how to cut and chop and stir left-handed, she eventually became a caterer, food writer and recipe developer. This book traces that remarkable story.

Jeff Houck

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